From First to Last: Mulled Wine and Marshmallows

The weather stayed dry, fairly windless and very cold for the book launch of Fearful Symmetry yesterday. After having four launches in the Old Library of Cobham Hall, I opted for an outdoors version around a bonfire and with a BBQ to celebrate the whole of The Secret Of The Journal series and to bring it to a fitting close.

Reminiscent of the bonfire scene and hog roast in Rope of Sand (but without Matthew and the snow, sigh) the hot mulled wine (C17th recipe) and Maine apple cider helped stave off some of the chill. I salute everyone who braved the cold and thank you all for making the last launch of the series truly memorable. For obvious reasons, the photos couldn’t capture the atmosphere, but I’ll post a few here anyway: the bonfire with marshmallow-roasting, and with the lovely Claire Musters in front of West Court at Cobham Hall. Special thanks go to the bursar, David Standen and the staff for everything they did to make the evening run on rails. Honestly, that BBQ was one of the best I’ve had.

One thing I didn’t do (because it was so cold my brain cell seized up) but had planned, was to thank those who made this series possible: Lisa Lewin, for listening to my first rambles about the series; Tony Collins who took the risk of taking on an unknown for Lion Hudson and Lion Fiction; author Pen Wilcock (the Hawk and Dove series) for her astute comments on the first draft. My father Bill Turnill, and friend and author Sue Russell (An Iron Yoke) for their eagle eyes, sharp wit, and astounding marketing. And everyone too numerous to mention – family, friends, and readers – who make endless hours of editing all worthwhile.